Slovakia and Latvia 'offer good value for money'

Many a raucous stag night has been spent in countries across central and eastern Europe, but it seems these less conventional destinations are fast becoming holiday hotspots.

According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics, the number of trips to Latvia climbed from 4,000 in 2003 to almost 50,000 in 2007, while Slovakia enjoyed a similar rise in visitor numbers.

Stag parties have long sought to capitalise on budget flights and cheap holiday costs in such countries and many Brits are now joining them by venturing outside of traditional destinations.

Head of product marketing at Expedia.co.uk Jonathan Cudworth said: "The appeal of less conventional destinations like Latvia and Slovakia stems from their good value for money."

He added that cities such as Dubrovnik in Croatia and Krakow in Poland have also seen a surge in interest lately as exchange rates begin to play a key role in choosing a holiday destination.

According to the Post Office City Costs Barometer 2009, the Polish capital of Warsaw is one of the cheapest destinations in eastern Europe for UK holidaymakers.

The city was highlighted as a top choice for anyone who is "on a budget but doesn't want a budget-style holiday".